ERCHED atop the rolling hills of Cape Panwa in Southeast Phuket and commanding breathtaking views of an endless tarpaulin of glinting azure sea, Sri Panwa Phuket is a hip and splendidly luxurious escape for travellers in the know. Tucked discretely into 40 acres of rainforest on a secluded tip of the peninsula, a short walk from a private beach, this is an ideal spot for romantic evening strolls and tranquil dips. While refreshingly remote, a private pier offers distractions a la carte, to include island-hopping, scuba diving and sailing forays into the big blue. Not surprisingly, Sri Panwa is ranked among the best Phuket luxury villa resorts.

Expect a stylish fusion of warm tropical tones and fresh, ocean-inspired motifs in the resort’s 52 bright and spacious Private Pool Villas. The lines are minimalist yet mod. All villas serve up dramatic views of the Andaman Sea but, if you really want to feel the full force of a blazing Thai sun and go solar, stay in a villa with 300 degrees of uninterrupted horizon. Suntan is not an issue.

Each unit has a private infinity pool with a Jacuzzi. You'll find an iPod preloaded with chill-out tunes, which you can play through a Bose surround sound system. Watch the world go lazily by through large floor-to-ceiling glass panes or do things gloriously outdoors in an alfresco rain-shower. Scenic gazebos are well positioned. Rich, handcrafted furnishings and terra cotta exteriors give the villas a warm and welcoming feel, much like a private home. Should your budget stretch, simply buy a villa home. It’s on the menu too at this top Phuket luxury villa resort.

Head to the Baba Poolclub for a 25m fast lap, fruit cocktails and sushi jet-fresh from Japan. Or simply grab a beer and pizza then head to the Baba88 disco. Wild nights on the dancefloor can be followed by trips to the resort’s Cool Spa, with an array of aromatic massages, scrubs and wraps. There’s also yoga and reflexology. Sports enthusiasts can work up a sweat on the tennis court or in the gym. Ample water sports are on offer and outlying island excursions are a big draw. Phi Phi is well within reach. Arrive as a couple or bring the kids. Dive in and make a splash.